Join the International Storytelling Center on Thursday, May 21, for Story Power, our season kickoff and spring fundraiser—an evening designed to celebrate the impact of storytelling and the community that sustains it.

Gather with fellow community leaders, arts supporters, and friends in Jonesborough for an intimate and inspiring night across two iconic venues: the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall and the Jackson Theatre. Through story and song, we will explore how shared narratives can connect us, shape us, and spark meaningful change.

The evening begins with an exclusive VIP Reception at the Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall. Patron ticket holders will enjoy a beautifully curated experience featuring elevated hors d’oeuvres, premium beverages, and a warm, elegant atmosphere—an opportunity to connect with fellow supporters and celebrate the evening before the performance begins.

We then move to the Jackson Theatre, where the program opens with the unmistakable voice of Bil Lepp, the master of tall tales. A five-time champion of the West Virginia Liars Contest, Bil blends humor, heart, and insight into stories that linger long after the laughter fades.

The evening continues with a live auction featuring one-of-a-kind experiences and getaways, including a Hilton Head vacation package, overnight stays at boutique hotels, exclusive storytelling events, and more.

The night concludes with the rich musical tradition of Nest of Singing Birds, a collective carrying forward the ballad legacy of Madison County, North Carolina. Led by Donna Ray Norton and rooted in the work of Sheila Kay Adams, these artists preserve songs passed down through generations—stories carried “knee to knee and hand to hand.”

Most importantly, your participation directly supports the work you care about. Proceeds from Story Power sustain the International Storytelling Center’s live performances, youth education programs, community outreach, and growing digital storytelling initiatives.